The short version
Free spins give you a fixed number of plays on one named slot. Bonus cash is a balance you can spend on a wider range of games. Both usually come with wagering, a time limit and a cap, so the better choice depends on the terms, not the headline.
How free spins work
- Credited as a number of spins at a fixed value, such as 20 spins at 10p, on a named slot.
- Winnings are normally credited as bonus funds with a wagering requirement, which for UK-licensed operators cannot exceed 10x.
- Spins often expire within a few days if unused.
- Some operators offer wager-free spins, where winnings are paid as withdrawable cash.
How bonus cash works
- Credited as a bonus balance, often after a qualifying deposit.
- Wagering is applied to the bonus amount, and sometimes to deposit plus bonus.
- Different games contribute different percentages towards the requirement.
- A maximum bet rule usually applies while the bonus is active.
Which is better?
| Free spins | Bonus cash | |
|---|---|---|
| Choice of games | One named slot | Wider, with contribution rules |
| Deposit needed | Sometimes not | Usually yes |
| Risk to your own money | None if no deposit is needed | Deposit is at stake |
| Typical value | Small, capped | Larger, with more conditions |
If you want to try a site without paying in first, free spins with no deposit carry no financial risk. If you were going to deposit anyway, compare the wagering, expiry and caps on the cash offer. Our wagering guide shows how to work out what each one costs on average.
Neither is free money. On average a bonus costs more to clear than it returns, so treat both as entertainment.
Last reviewed 4 November 2026. This page is general information, not advice. Always read an operator's own terms before you claim an offer.